Why are data centres such a big deal in Scotland?
Scotland is seeing a surge in proposals for massive 'hyperscale' data centers to support the growing demand for artificial intelligence. While proponents highlight potential economic growth and job creation, local communities are raising concerns about energy consumption, noise, and land use.
Why it matters
The rapid expansion of AI infrastructure is creating significant local planning and environmental conflicts as regions struggle to balance economic development with sustainability.
Image source, Google Image caption, A Google Data Centre in Cheshunt in Hertfordshire
Every time you ask ChatGPT a question, read a Google summary or make an online bank payment, a data centre is working behind the scenes.
Now Scotland is part of a global race to build many more of them - on a massive scale.
The explosion in artificial intelligence (AI) over the past few years has seen tech firms scrambling to build new "hyperscale" data centres, including some which would rank among the biggest in the world.
Plans are in place to build at least 23 giant AI-powered data centres.
Supporters say they are vital for the future and could bring billions of pounds in investment, as well as thousands of jobs.
Opponents fear the impact of their size on local communities, the vast amounts of energy they use and even the noise they will make.
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